Itinerary
3-Day NYC Food Itinerary: The Perfect Eating Schedule
Three days. Four meals a day. Organized by neighborhood so you are not crossing the city between every stop. This is how to eat New York City properly.
Day 1
Lower East Side & Chinatown
Russ & Daughters
Go early to avoid the weekend line. This is the best bagel-and-lox in the city.
Katz's Delicatessen
Get a ticket at the door. Tip your carver. Ask for a taste before they build the sandwich.
Nom Wah Tea Parlor
Walk south from the LES into Chinatown. Doyers St is a historic curved street — worth the detour.
Joe's Shanghai
Arrive before 7pm to avoid the longest waits. Communal seating is normal here.
Day 2
Greenwich Village & Chelsea
Murray's Bagels
They do not toast here. This is a philosophical position. The bagel is good enough that it does not need it.
Joe's Pizza
Fold the slice lengthwise before the first bite. This is not optional.
Dominique Ansel Bakery
Walk north through SoHo. Arrive by 3:30pm — they sell out daily.
The Lobster Place (Chelsea Market)
Chelsea Market is worth exploring for 30 minutes before dinner. The Lobster Place is at the west end of the market.
Day 3
Brooklyn & Uptown
Junior's Restaurant
Take the B or Q to DeKalb Ave. The Brooklyn original is worth the trip. The Times Square location is convenient but not the same experience.
Di Fara Pizza
This is a 45-minute subway ride from Midtown. It is worth it. The slice is cut with scissors and finished with fresh basil and olive oil.
Gray's Papaya
Take the subway back to Manhattan. Gray's Papaya is open 24 hours. The Recession Special is still one of the best value meals in the city.
Peter Luger Steak House
Cash only — bring it. Make a reservation weeks in advance. This is the splurge meal of the trip.
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